Marie Curie cared for my mother Ellen Margaret McVitty (always known as Peggy) though her final days at their then hospice in Caterham, Surrey in the year 2000. They did this with skill, compassion and respect.

In 2000 I was the youngest of three sons in his late 30’s angry with grief at the premature loss of his dear mother and I never really said thank you properly to Marie Curie. Fast forward 20 plus years and my two colleagues Rachael and Sian ran the London Marathon in October 2022 and April 2023 respectively. I am not a runner (unless I have a hockey stick in my hand) but I walk everywhere and I walk fast and I was encouraged by Rachael to turn that walk into a run (of sorts). and to apply to run my first ever marathon. Sian suggested a charity link and 24 years later I am proud to run The London Marathon for Marie Curie. It may not be fast and it may not be pretty but it will say a proper belated thank you to Marie Curie and honour my mother, Peggy.